Emma Heming Willis asks paparazzi for 'space' after husband Bruce Willis' dementia diagnosis
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- Emma Heming Willis posted an Instagram video Saturday after her husband Bruce Willis was recorded on a walk.
- Emma asked caregivers how to "navigate" the world with loved ones with dementia.
- The model also asked the paparazzi to give Bruce "space" while he's in public.
On Saturday, Emma Heming Willis took to Instagram to ask for safety tips and "space" after her husband Bruce Willis was photographed in public following his dementia diagnosis.
"To other caregivers or dementia care specialist navigating this world ... Any tips or advice on how to get your loved ones out in the world safely? Please share below," Emma captioned the post.
The model and founder has worked alongside a dementia specialist since Bruce's recent diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia, according to Yahoo Entertainment. She is also looking to spread awareness regarding how to treat people who have dementia while they are in public.
Emma and Bruce have been married since 2009 and share two daughters, Mabel Ray, 10, and Evelyn Penn, 8. Bruce also has three daughters with his ex-wife Demi Moore, Rumer Glenn, 34, Scout LaRue, 32, and Tallulah Belle, 29.
Emma began the video by sharing her intention of "raising awareness" around dementia. The model acknowledged how "difficult" and "stressful" it can be to safely navigate the world with a loved one diagnosed with the condition.
The actor's wife went on to describe a recent event where Bruce was photographed getting coffee with friends in Santa Monica. Emma appeared to hold back tears as she discussed the situation and asked for space.
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"It's clear that there's still a lot of education that needs to be put forth," she said in the video. "So this one is going out to the photographers and the video people that are trying to get those exclusives of my husband out and about: Just keep your space."
Emma continued by requesting paparazzi stop yelling at her husband while he's in public.
"I know this is your job, but maybe just keep your space. For the video people, please don't be yelling at my husband asking him how he's doing or whatever — the woohoo-ing and the yippee ki yays ... just don't do it. OK? Give him his space. Allow for our family or whoever's with him that day to be able to get him from point A to point B safely," Emma concluded.
In March 2022, Bruce announced he was taking a break from acting after being diagnosed with aphasia, a language disorder that can affect one's ability to communicate. In February, the Willis family announced his frontotemporal dementia diagnosis.
"We know in our hearts that — if he could today — he would want to respond by bringing global attention and a connectedness with those who are also dealing with this debilitating disease and how it impacts so many individuals and their families," the Willis family wrote in a statement published on the Association of Frontotemporal Degeneration's website.